Scottish Ministers have appointed Crawford Gillies as the new chairman of Scottish Enterprise.

John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, said: "The appointment of Crawford Gillies is an excellent development for Scotland and the Scottish economy at a time when we all face the unprecedented challenges caused by the global downturn.

"With a wealth of global business experience as an inspiring, energetic leader of people, Crawford is a world class appointment for the role."

Minster Swinney said Crawford will do an excellent job. Crawford has experience of leading new-start technology ventures, participating in the board of a major financial institution and creating a new leadership programme for young people in Scotland with ambition.

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Crawford Gillies said: "I am excited to be taking on this important and challenging role. The government has laid out a clear economic direction with some ambitious goals. Scottish Enterprise has a critical, focussed role to play in helping achieve these goals.

"I know there are many outstanding people at Scottish Enterprise. I look forward to working with them, the government and importantly, the wider Scottish business community to help create more successful Scottish businesses."

The appointment is for a term of three years and four months, from February 14, 2009 to June 30, 2012. The appointment is non-pensionable and attracts an annual remuneration of £38,721 for a commitment of 1.5 days per week.

This Ministerial public appointment was made in accordance with the Code of Practice issued by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments in Scotland.

Scottish Enterprise is the Scottish Government's main agency for economic development in North East, Central and Lowland Scotland. The Scottish Government provides Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise with a clear strategic direction through the Government Economic Strategy.

Crawford Gillies holds no other public appointments.

(GK/JM)